Dr. Jason Anderson will serve as the next Executive Director of the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts (LSMSA). His appointment is subject to approval by LSMSA’s Board of Directors, who will meet on June 15.
Dr. Anderson, who currently serves as the school’s Director of Academic Affairs and Chief Academic Officer, will begin his new role on July 1. He will replace Dr. Steve Horton, who is retiring from the post on June 30 after serving 10 years.
“The search committee is pleased to culminate the last six months of their work by recommending Dr. Anderson for the position,” said Dr. Greg Handel, chair of the search committee. “He possesses the thoughtful and dynamic dispositions to serve as Executive Director, is passionate about the mission of LSMSA, understands the unique perspectives that LSMSA students bring to campus, and is a staunch advocate for the rigorous standards of the school. We look forward to working with him to continue to move the school forward.”
With over 15 years of experience as an educator and administrator at LSMSA, Dr. Anderson brings an intimate understanding of the institution’s mission and culture. Since joining the faculty in 2011, he has served in numerous leadership capacities, including Faculty Representative on the Board of Directors, Director of the LSMSA-EXCEL program, and Principal Lecturer of Science.
“My leadership philosophy is rooted in service,” Dr. Anderson said. “I built this philosophy while I was a faculty member and volunteer coach here; I have consistently prioritized service that strengthens institutional integrity and fosters student success. Whether mentoring students or supporting colleagues, I approach leadership as a way to empower others and sustain excellence.”
Dr. Anderson earned the Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Southern University and A&M College in 2002. He later attended Texas A&M University, where he earned both a Master of Science and a Ph.D. in Plant Breeding, with a concentration in Cytogenetics. Before his administrative appointment, he established himself as a distinguished researcher and educator, co-authoring several peer-reviewed publications and receiving high marks for his instruction at the collegiate level.
During his tenure at LSMSA, Dr. Anderson has been a driving force behind several key initiatives. He has overseen academic operations, faculty recruitment, and the development of the school’s Faculty Growth Evaluation Plan. He is currently focused on the final stages of the LSMSA Innovation Center and the implementation of a new engineering curriculum.
In addition to his academic roles, Dr. Anderson has been deeply involved in the school’s extracurricular life, serving as an assistant coach for the girls’ and boys’ basketball teams for over a decade and acting as the faculty sponsor for the Black Student Union.
“It has been a privilege to work alongside Jason for many years, and I can think of no one better prepared to lead LSMSA into its next chapter,” said retiring Executive Director Dr. Steve Horton. “His deep roots as a faculty member, combined with his recent success as Chief Academic Officer, give him a unique and invaluable perspective on what makes this community so special. I am confident that his commitment to academic excellence and his collaborative spirit will ensure the school continues to thrive as a national leader in gifted education.”
The search for the new Executive Director drew applications from throughout the nation, including several candidates from higher education. The search committee included representation from the school’s Board of Directors, the Foundation Board, faculty, alumni, and parents. Following a rigorous process that included campus visits and input from faculty, staff, and students, Dr. Anderson was selected to lead the institution into its next chapter.
“Dr. Anderson is highly regarded by the faculty and received very positive evaluations from members of the search committee,” said Dr. Vickie Gentry, Chair of the LSMSA Board of Directors. “I’m very confident that he will serve as an excellent executive director for LSMSA.”
